Police around the Bay of Plenty District will be showing their support at a number of White Ribbon events this week to reinforce their stand against family violence.

Today is White Ribbon Day, which is the United Nations International Day for the elimination of violence against women.

Bay of Plenty Police will be attending a number of events to promote an anti-domestic violence message.

The wearing of a white ribbon has been adopted as the international symbol of opposition to such violence.

Prevention manager for the Bay of Plenty District, Inspector Scott Fraser, says family violence remains a daily priority for police.

Scott says: 'We know that incidents still go unreported and White Ribbon Day is the valuable opportunity to remind people of the importance of taking a stand.

'For us to effectively help victims, prevent violence and hold offenders to account, we need family, friends and the wider community to speak out.

'We encourage everyone to join in the conversation about family violence, recognise the behaviours that might indicate someone is suffering at the hands of violence and then act by seeking help for victims.

'With this united approach we will teach our future generations that violence and abuse of any kind is not acceptable.”

The community can also join police at a variety of White Ribbon events around the district.

It is an opportunity to show support for the cause and to find out what support services are available in an informal, anonymous and non-judgemental environment.

Among the events is a range of activities for all ages in Mitchell Park, Whakatane from 3pm on Thursday. They include a bouncy castle, vintage fire engines and a tug-of-war competition.

Motorcyclists taking part in the annual White Ribbon Ride across New Zealand will also be travelling through at lunchtime and will stop at the event.

Elsewhere, a community event will be held at the Ron Hardie recreation centre between 10am-2pm on Friday, with live music, fire engine rides and various stalls and activities.

Motorcyclists from the White Ribbon Ride will also attend this event before heading to Fraser Cove in Tauranga for the annual tug-of-war competition, which is in its 5th year.

Saturday will see members of the Rotorua community take part in a 4km bicycle ride through the town before a host of activities on the village green.

If you are the victim of violence or you know someone who is being abused speak out. If you or someone you know are in immediate danger call: 111.

Women's Refuge Crisis Line also offers a 24hr helpline service on: 0800 REFUGE.

For more information about where to get help and how you can help if you know someone affected by family violence go to: www.areyouok.org.nz or call: 0800 456 450.